• What's at Risk?

    The Partition Street Project is being built on the former Cantine Mill property [aka Barclays Dam]. Back in 1985 Saugerties Village government recognized the potential of the 7 acres that borders the lower Esopus Creek and at its center the magnificent dam which was constructed to help fuel the industrial revolution. -- More

Cantine Dam and Saugerties Village Bridge

cantine dam saugerties e1261402472922 Cantine Dam and Saugerties Village Bridge

cantine dam saugerties

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Developers have the right to do what they want!

One of the most often repeated mantras heard from those in their uncritical acceptance of private commercial development is “developers have the right to do what they want with their own land.”  This is incorrect for many reasons:

Often they do not own the land but have a contract for purchase pending development approvals.

Development is subject to local, county, state and sometimes federal approvals.

Development is subject to local, county, state and federal laws and land use plans as well as the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act which requires the consideration of alternate plans.

This specific proposal for the former Cantine Mill site overlooking the waterfall is subject to review and approval by the Village Planning Board of site plans, subdivision and special  use permit which may require conditions be met for approval.  The Village Board has already granted a zoning change to  permit a hotel, though not a conference center, reportedly without adequate public notice before the change. The complacent planning board appears to want to cave in and agree to virtually anything the developer wants to do. There will be one opportunity for members of the public to have three minutes to counter the claims of months and many thousands of dollars of presentations to the planning board to which the applicants have unlimited access. This is the same site for which the Mayor sought state funds nearly ten years ago for a public park and for which he applied for 2.5 million dollars two years ago to subsidize this private commercial development.

The applicants may own title to the land overlooking the waterfall, but they do not own one drop of the waterfall itself or the view of the historic creek and viewshed beyond, which have existed there for hundreds of years, though they wish to privatize and monopolize those features for their own commercial use. This site is of regional historic and scenic importance. The owners have the responsibility to treat it and us with respect. Martin Cantine gave us the unparalleled Cantine Field, home of the world famous Garlic Festival as well as hundreds of  baseball games every year. We need such vision and dedication to the public in this proposed Partition Street commercial development.

Barry Benepe

The writer is a retired professional planner, Member of the American Society of Consulting Planners, American Institute of Planners and Fellow of the American Institute of Architects.  He is also a member of the Saugerties Citiizens for Smart Development.

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Everything will be fine, he’s a good man.

Dear Editor:

I am trying to understand the role of the public in the development process, as I have been following the Partition Street Project.  Everyone says don’t worry everything will be fine and we should rely on the reputation of the developers.  I am diligently positive about the project, as I think it will be good for Saugerties, but I do want the applicants to follow the law. The New York State law requires a review and in the case of a project of this size and complexity, it requires a full review of all environmental impacts.  I know that the developers have hired professional consultants to help them in the review process, but they are trying to avoid the full review which would allow the public to participate in the consideration of alternatives.  Now what we are told is that this sketch plan is the only plan and there can be no changes. We have tried to meet with the developer.  We have tried to meet with our Congressman who in this case is also an investor in the project.  We have tried to get on the agenda of the Village Planning Board, but have been told we cannot be on their agenda unless we have an application for a project.  It appears to me that this is a shut out.  We can attend Village Planning Board meetings, but we cannot speak.  We can attend, but we cannot get on the agenda.  Yes, they held one Public Hearing, but that is inadequate for what we want to accomplish.  We want to sit with the applicants to share our ideas that we believe will make a better project.  This process of public participation has worked in many other towns and villages in our area.  We call on the Village Planning Board to not be intimidated or to buy into the ruse that the developer will walk away if they require him to follow the law and go through a full environmental review.  He will not walk away and we will all benefit from a better project. What it takes is for the Village Planning Board to recognize their role which is not to immediately acquiesce to the developer’s wishes, but to work to shape the future of the Village in the public interest.

Yours truly,

Saugerties Citizens for Smart Development
Judith Spektor
311 Van Vlierden Road
judithspektor@aol.com

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A HOLD UP OR AN END RUN?

Dear Editor:

There appears to be a lot of misinformation about the efforts of the Saugerties Citizens for Smart Development (CSD).  We are a community organization formed to support the Partition Street Project and to improve it.  We are in no way anti-business or trying to “hold up” the developer or kill the project.  In fact, our position is quite the opposite.

Everyone asks have we met with the owners of the property?  The answer is no because they will not meet with us.  We call upon the developers to work with us on a better plan that will add greatly to their project.  We propose a public walkway along the bluff on this project using a mere two percent of the property.  The walkway will be a magnet attracting visitors to Saugerties to view our “Niagara Falls.”  It will also enhance the outdoor dining experience serving as a people watching sight for restaurant patrons.  And it will not prevent private events that can be held on the second floor with a private balcony overlooking the falls.  It might also be closed, if necessary, for events.

We are told that it is highly unusual for a development of this size not to be required to submit a full environmental review.  Instead the owners are trying to do an “end run” around the law by picking and choosing the environmental impacts they study and not opening the process up to alternatives.  What are they afraid of?  If it is that we will hold them up for years with litigation, they should think again, as that is not our intention.  In fact what we want is to seek a middle ground where we can work together to come to a better project.  We are not in it to win it, but rather to come to accommodation in which the public interest is protected.  Shouldn’t the public funding in this project give the public a seat at the table?

SAUGERTIES CITIZENS FOR SMART DEVELOPMENT
Dave Minch

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Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

partition project entrance 500x299 Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

partition project entrance

At the December 8th Saugerties Village Planning Board meeting included a presentation of two simulations of the Partition Street Project by Liscum McCormack VanVoorhis Architects. The above drawing is a simulation that the architect stated is a simulated view from the Saugerties Village Bridge from above the Cantine Dam Falls.

Many comments were made by citizens in attendance, which centered around the buildings’ similarity to a fortress, college campus and possibly a motel chain. It even had an uncanny resemblance of West Point Military Academy. A loud gasp was heard when the drawing was revealed.

In case you haven’t heard, Saugerties Village is listed as one of the “top 10 coolest small town in America.” by Budget travel. It may be just coincidence, though the new drawings of Partition Street Project may have been inspired by our new found status. Here are the many motel franchises to compare:

americinn glenwoodsprings 100x75 Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

AmericInn

USBaymontInnKissimmeeAmerihostInnKissimmee61 100x75 Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

Amerihost Franchise Systems

Baymont Brentwood 100x75 Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

Baymont Inns & Suites

078230A1 100x75 Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

Americas Best Value inn

best western travel inn1 100x75 Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

best western travel inn

choice hotels 100x75 Partition Street Project Resembles Budget Motel Chain

choice hotels

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Partition Street Project Private with $780,000.00 Public Money

It is misleading to say that a private property owner has a right to do what he wants with his own property.

  • Development is subject to local, county, state and sometimes federal approvals.
  • Development is subject to local, county, state and federal laws and land use plans as well as the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act which requires the consideration of alternate plans.
  • The former Cantine Mill site overlooking the waterfall is subject to review and approval by the Village Planning Board of site plans, subdivision/lot line change, and a special use permit which may require conditions be met for approval. 
  • The Village Board has already granted a zoning change to permit a hotel, reportedly without adequate public notice before the change. The Zoning Law can be changed by the Village Board after a public hearing at any time.  Perhaps we the public should advocate a change in zoning that would require public access on the waterfront for all commercial projects.
  • This private project has $780,000 of public money in it that was granted on an application submitted by the Village of Saugerties on behalf of this project.  The original application was for $2.5 million.
  • Regarding the ownership of the property itself, the applicants own the land, but do not own the waterfall, the view of the creek, or the viewshed beyond all of which are historic.  This project is an attempt to privatize and monopolize the waterfall and the views for commercial use.
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The SEQR Process Simplified

New York’s  SEQR (State Environmental Quality Review Act)  can be daunting, especially if you’re new to the process. Firstly, just because it has the word “environment” in its name doesn’t mean it’s focus is solely on nature; i.e. birds, bees and trees.  SEQR encompasses broad aspects of impacts that a project may have on its host community and ultimately its purpose is to offer protections to local citizenry.

In New York state, planning and town/village boards and other government agencies (not the private developers) must comply with strict procedures for the review of environmental impacts of proposed projects they approve. If the procedures are not adhered to, citizens may challenge the agency’s decision in court using Chapter 78 of New York’s Civil Practice Law & Rules, in the county Supreme Court with the purpose of having the decision annulled and the environmental review process started over.

An easy-to-understand article titled “State Environmental Quality Review Act – A Citizens Primer” explains the process in simple terms. Another informative document available online is “Planning Board Basics” which is in a Power Point Presentation prepared by NYS Tug Hill Commission – 09/24/2009.

Below is a diagram that I took the liberty of duplicating from Environmental Justice and Permitting Resources

seqr process 400x256 The SEQR Process Simplified

New York State SEQR Process

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Saugerties’ “Natural Wonder” is in Hands of Congressman Hinchey

saugerties nanny goat hill 400x307 Saugerties Natural Wonder is in Hands of Congressman Hinchey

saugerties nanny goat hill awaits destruction

Dear Congressman Hinchey

I have learned that there are plans afoot to develop the Nanny Goat Hill site in Saugerties and that you are among the named developers.

I think that there are things that you should know about Nanny Goat Hill and I would like to write you about them.

By way of introduction, I am a professor of geology at Hartwick College and a writer of geology columns for Kaatskill Life Magazine, and five regional newspapers, including the Woodstock Times and the Hudson Catskill newspaper chain. In short I communicate a great deal with our local community.

I understand that it may be that Nanny Goat Hill will  be blasted away in order to make room for a parking garage. I hope this will not happen.

Nanny goat hill is a remarkable ice age feature called  by the name of “ramp and pluck.” It was formed during the Ice Age when a sizable glacier advanced from the east. The glacier scoured its way up the east side of the Nanny Goat Hill and created the gentle slope that is seen there.

As the ice overrode the hill, it adhered to the bedrock there, yanked or plucked much of it loose, and created the steep cliff face seen on that side.

Please see the attached photo of Nanny Goat Hill that shows the ramp side on the right and the plucked side on the left.

This really is a remarkable ice age feature and I know of no others like it in our vicinity. I feel that it should be protected and appreciated.

Like so many others, I watched and enjoyed Ken Burns’ series on the national parks. We all learned much from it, but the single most important message was about learning to save, not destroy the natural wonders all around us.

At the very least I hope you will show this message to your architects and see what they can do.

Thank you for listening.

Robert Titus, PhD
Department of Geology
Hartwick College
Oneonta NY 13820

Posted in Latest News, News Articles | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

TOWN AND VILLAGE OF SAUGERTIES COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

storm esopus 400x268 TOWN AND VILLAGE OF SAUGERTIES COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Esopus Creek from The Hudson River

NOTE:  See Red Highlighted Areas Below

Adopted: Village of Saugerties – December 20, 1999/Town of Saugerties – December 22, 1999

INTRODUCTION:
Communities like the Town and Village of Saugerties were originally established without comprehensive plans, review boards, or regulatory controls. Many of the historic village, hamlets, farm complexes, and rural roads remain from this era of initial development, a landscape now admired for its unique, yet harmonious visual qualities. Why then is a comprehensive plan necessary:
Modern development involves rapid changes in technology and building materials and techniques. Worldwide communication has expanded through fax machines, the Internet and e-mail, and population mobility has been greatly enhanced. Individual communities are now directly affected by regional, national and even international trends and markets. One major housing project can dramatically increase a municipality’s population, creating significant impacts on traffic, school and other local services for the municipality and surrounding communities. Community standards which were once passed down through generations among a smaller network of families and moderated by a slower pace of change, must now be defined and protected by the democratically elected local government that represents ever-changing population.
A comprehensive plan is a public review process that defines what is important to the community. By carefully examining current conditions and issues in the context of citizen involvement, justifiable recommendations for future action can be established. Its purpose is to guide change as consistent with community goals. In a unique Town/Village collaboration, this plan identifies important elements of the Town and Village’s natural and built environment and provides goals and recommendations intended to preserve that environment, while supporting growth that is compatible with community standards.
As a policy statement of community intent, a comprehensive plan serves the following purpose:

  • It operates as an overall guide to be used in day-to-day development decisions;
  • It serves as a coordinating mechanism for officials responsible for implementing elements of the plan;
  • It provides residents with information on how their community will develop
  • It gives the public and private sectors a clear statement of what the community will expect in development proposals;

It provides a legal basis for the specific land use regulations and other local government functions which will govern the structure of the community in the future.

Land use change is almost always initiated by the private sector, by individual decisions to build homes, start new businesses, expand existing businesses, sell farms, or make other changes. However, the private sector responds to opportunities that governments create through zoning, subdivision regulations, infrastructure investment and other official statements of local policy. Local governments can also take the initiative for the protection of valuable resources through the consistent application of comprehensive plan principles and other regulatory actions. The plan seeks to guide market forces so that development opportunities and land use goals will be compatible.

THE PLANNING PROCESS

A committee of Town and Village of Saugerties residents was appointed to develop this document. The committee was first started in 1996 as the Town of Saugerties Zoning Revision Committee which had the task of reviewing and updating of the Town’s zoning regulations. The focus of the committee was changed when the Town decided to write a comprehensive plan before undertaking the updating of the zoning regulations. The committee evolved into the joint Town and Village Comprehensive Plan Committee when it was decided to invite the Village of Saugerties to join the process. The joint committee initially focused on drafting a series of policy statements addressing important issues in the community. These “14 Points” became the basis for the Goals and Recommendations in this document. In July 1998, the New York Planning Federation began working with the joint committee to coordinate completion of a comprehensive plan. Letters were sent to community leaders offering information about the comprehensive planning process including offers to visit with individuals or civic groups to make presentations about the committee and their efforts. By invitation, committee members attended the meetings of several organizations to gain comments and ideas. Throughout the process, the nearly twenty committee meetings were open to the public.

In December, 1998, a public information meeting was held to further publicize the comprehensive plan process and to solicit comments on what should be included in the comprehensive plan. A brief survey was also distributed at the meeting, as well as to other residents through community organizations and on the initiative of members of the Comprehensive Planning Committee.
Using the committee’s original 14 Points, and comments received during the public meeting and from residents, the committee began drafting Goals and Recommendations to be included in the Comprehensive Plan. Upon completion of the draft goals and recommendations, copies were again distributed to community organizations for comments. During March and April, 1999, members of the comprehensive planning committee and staff from the New York Planning Federation attended meetings of the Town Board, Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals and a joint meeting of the Village Board of Trustees and Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals to present the draft goals and recommendations. On April 15, 1999, a second public meeting was held to allow the public to comment on the draft goals and recommendations. Comments were also received in writing. All comments and suggestions were taken into consideration by the committee while revising the goals and recommendations. Based on the goals and recommendations, an implementation strategy was next developed.
This Comprehensive Plan represents a summary of the work of the Saugerties Town and Village Comprehensive Planning Committee based on their research and the comments of standing boards of both the Town and Village and the comments of residents and friends of Saugerties. The complete Comprehensive Plan includes background information on the history of Saugerties, natural resources and demographic trends. This document includes only the goals and recommendations and implementation strategies written by the Committee and adopted by the Town and Village. For a copy of the complete Comprehensive Plan contact the Town or Village Clerk.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Comprehensive Plan for Saugerties is a forward thinking, comprehensive vision of the Town and Village at their best. While allowing for future responsible growth, the plan maintains the positive mix of historic village, suburban and rural settings located between the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains, and nurtures the community’s friendly and safe atmosphere. Proposals for changes will be guided by the following precepts:

GOAL #1: In order to continuously improve the quality of life for its residents and maintain its friendly atmosphere, Saugerties will encourage: quality, unified law enforcement; a strong, unified justice system; personal pride and responsibility; a neighborly atmosphere; ethical leadership; and citizen involvement, particularly youth involvement, in the community to create a better future.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and Village:

1.1 support the formation of community associations and other local interest groups as a way of identifying collective concerns and organizing community involvement,

1.2 encourage the widest possible participation in the governmental process to ensure that the concerns of all are heard. Some techniques to encourage public involvement include: regular press releases in addition to legal notices to announce agendas of meetings and events; follow-up community surveys to elaborate on specific topics; candidate or community issue forums; scheduled weekend walkabouts with local representatives to discuss problem or development proposals; cable coverage of town and village meetings and events; and publicize events on the Saugerties website (www.saugerties.ny.us).

1.3 encourage leadership training of all their local leaders in order to provide well-trained leadership for the municipalities. Training should include meeting management, negotiation and collaborative problem solving skills, as well as appropriate specialized skills.

1.4 work on designs for the major gateways to the Town and the Village that create a distinct visual impression with enhanced landscaping, directional signs and thematic signs to define the entrances and help maintain a sense of community identity.

1.5 act cooperatively with neighboring towns to protect, maintain and improve the Hudson Valley. It will act as a responsible member of the Catskill Mountain region and the global community. Saugerties is affected environmentally, economically and socially by its neighbors. It is in the township’s best interest to be forward-thinking and act cooperatively with its neighbors to accomplish common goals.

1.6 make efforts to work with neighboring communities to better address issues that impact the entire region.

1.7 enforce local laws that require people to maintain their private property.

1.8 enforce their local animal control ordinances.

1.9 ensure lead agencies implementing the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) follow the mandate [Section 617.1(d)] to consider social as well as economic and environmental factors, produce documents understandable to the general population, and provide full opportunity for public comments and consideration of project alternatives that are compatible with the existing community character.

1.10 establish a roadside maintenance program to keep the roadways of the municipalities free of litter and debris.

1.11 review and update all of their local land use regulations, including site plan and subdivision regulations, to ensure that the review process is streamlined and efficient.

1.12 work with neighboring municipalities to review zoning regulations along municipal borders.

1.13 will be active communities in New York State by, among other things, maintaining memberships in organizations, such as the Association of Towns of New York State and the New York Conference of Mayors. Both municipalities will also continue to keep informed of legislation and regulations that will affect the communities, actively seek funding sources for Town and Village projects, and, where feasible, participate in programs and workshops offered by the state and federal agencies and other organizations that will be useful in these endeavors.

1.14 All Activities by the community including organizations, businesses, government, clubs, councils, schools, civic groups and public employees will promote the values of the community, particularly respect, responsibility, caring and honesty.

GOAL #2 Education and recreation will be diverse, of the highest standard and available to all age groups

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village:

2.1 support the implementation and development of the Master Development Plan for Cantine Field Extension, in order to create a mulit-use recreational facility for community residents and visitors of all ages that complies with all requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

2.2 work with the School Board to support adult and continuing education programs and should support other community functions of the local public and private schools.

2.3 work with the School Board to help ensure that the schools provide a positive, safe atmosphere that promotes excellence in education.

2.4 work with the School Board to encourage education programs for teachers, administration and students to elevate all concerned to the highest technological and educational skill levels obtainable.

2.5 and schools work to ensure that appropriate facilities are available that will allow for recreational variety including sports, performing arts and cultural events for all ages throughout the year.

2.6 will take every opportunity to educate its residents and visitors about Saugerties’ history.

2.7 work toward expanding the Saugerties Public Library facilities, services, and cultural activities associated with the Library, in the areas of patron parking, handicap access and building space.

GOAL #3 The Town and Village governments will work together to achieve community goals in a cooperative and efficient manner. Saugerties must not be internally divided. The Town and Village governments should consolidate services wherever it proves beneficial to both municipalities and their respective taxpayers.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village:

3.1 form a joint committee to identify mutually beneficial opportunities for cooperation between both municipalities.

3.2 examine the possible benefits of consolidating police and justice systems.

3.3 Comprehensive Planning Committee work to implement the Plan. At least every five years, this committee should also review and recommend amendments to this plan, if appropriate, in conjunction with surveys and/or resident forums on current planning issues. It is suggested that the Committee consist of seven members (four from the Town and three from the Village) to serve staggered two year terms.

GOAL #4 To maintain the historic and small town character of Saugerties’ historic sites and structures will be protected and restored as needed. Our architecture is unique. New structures will be designed to complement rather than clash with existing structures. Attractive markers or small signs should signify places of historic interest to educate residents as well as visitors.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village:

4.1 work to identify, protect and restore their historic buildings, sites and roadside cultural features and ensure that new development respects historic traditions. A local landmark committee, similar to the Village’s should be established by the Town to identify sites and explore methods of protection and restoration.

4.2 encourage historically sensitive rehabilitation of historic properties that are being adapted to new uses.

4.3 require new development to be compatible with the setting, scale and design of surrounding architecture and landscape elements.

4.4 adopt design guidelines with recommendations on architecture, streetscapes, signs and maintenance procedures to define the concept of architectural compatibility, to provide positive guidance to applicants and to help streamline the development review process.

4.5 zoning laws require Planning Board approval for any major exterior alteration, demolition, or relocation of a structure designated a national or local historic landmark, as well as new construction directly adjacent to such landmarks, to protect both municipalities from historically destructive renovation, incompatible new architecture and unnecessary demolition.

4.6 work together to design historic markers or signs to identify places of historic interest.

4.7 The Town of Saugerties should document the historic structures throughout the Town and support the benefits of becoming a Certified Local Government.

GOAL #5 The Town and Village support and encourage planning policies that promote environmentally sound development in all zoning districts and are responsive to the socio-economic needs of both communities. These two factors must be balanced. The open spaces and rural aspect of the area are not replaceable and any development should be well thought out and planned with the future in mind.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village:

5.1 will ensure that the type and intensity of uses permitted in any area shall be based on the capacity of the area’s natural resources (steep slopes, wetlands, floodplains, etc.) and infrastructure (utilities, roads, etc.) to accommodate development.

5.2 where possible, encourage and support development that reinforces the historic pattern of land use in the community. The most intensive residential and commercial development shall be located in and adjacent to the Village where public water and sewer are available and the road system has the greatest capacity. Existing hamlets will remain the center of activity for the more rural areas.

5.3 keep their zoning and subdivision regulations up-to-date to reflect the policy recommendations within the Comprehensive Plan. Further development should conform to community goals.

5.4 encourage high quality design and construction, with the retention of existing trees and natural features wherever possible, and the sensitive use of landscaping and architecturally compatible elements to integrate new development with the surrounding area. (See also Recommendations 8.12, 8.15, 8.16)

5.5 maintain and enforce sign regulations that eliminate non-essential, off-site or excessively large signs, and removal of temporary signs and encourage designs that are compatible with the building and neighborhood.

5.6 encourage the development of light industries and offices in designated locations which have immediate access to the New York State Thruway and/or Routes 32 and 212. New single parcel industrial uses in residential areas off major transportation routes should be avoided. (See also Recommendations 8.1, 8.3, 8.6, 8.8, 8.12, 8.16, 8.18)

5.7 take full advantage of the State Environmental Quality Review Act as a means to obtain detailed information on the environmental and community impacts of proposed development, make potential concerns open to public comment and explore alternatives to continue the project.

5.8 develop an economic development plan for Routes 9W, 212 and 32 corridors in order to help ensure this area will grow in a manner that is mutually beneficial to both communities and property owners.

5.9 encourage the use of clustering, where appropriate, to help preserve open space, protect sensitive natural features and contain infrastructure and housing costs.

5.10 require any development to include plans to reduce storm water runoff and to handle storm water runoff in a way that will protect the environment.

GOAL # 6 Saugerties will maintain and encourage diversity in all aspects of the community. Saugerties will continue to provide a variety of businesses, industries and recreational choices. There will be diversity in housing to appeal to all levels of income including cluster homes, apartments, and well-planned manufactured housing parks.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village

6.1 support both existing and new businesses to provide a wide range of employment, services and retail opportunities for both residents and visitors. Services should included businesses within walking distance of concentrations of population and regional retail stores that attract a larger market. Businesses of all sizes are encouraged when they offer employment opportunities to the people of the Town and Village, or attract tourists to the Saugerties area. (See Goal #8 and Recommendations 8.1 through 8.18)

6.2 examine all current housing options and community facilities in relation to the projected population growth and accommodate change while enhancing the communities’ mix of ages, income groups and family types.

6.3 work to provide a broad range of housing for all present and future residents, including young people, families with children, senior citizens and households that earn less that the median income.

6.4 ensure that equal housing laws are enforced and all housing meets public health, safety and zoning codes and that sufficient funds are provided for those purposes.

6.5 work with New York State to develop a plan for state-owned land, such a Bristol Beach, Eve’s Point and Turkey Point, along the waterfront. This plan may include recreation opportunities while addressing environmental concerns in the area.

6.6 support the Saugerties Public Housing Agency and other organizations, such as the Senior Housing Project and Better Community Housing for Saugerties, as they work to provide housing for qualified low-income residents of the Town and Village of Saugerties.

GOAL #7 Town and Village efforts should promote awareness and protection of natural resources, wilderness and scenic areas. Saugerties is ideally located between the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River. its green, open spaces are one of its most precious non-renewable natural resources. These areas have aesthetic and recreational value for both residents and visitors. Establishment and maintenance of wilderness corridors are vital.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and Village:

7.1 protect areas of environmental concern by regulation of use and intensity of development and by review of specific development proposals. Such areas include: areas in the public water supply, areas of steep slope (25 percent or over), areas in designated wetlands or floodplains and areas with unique visual characteristics such as views to or from the Hudson River or Catskill Mountains.

7.2 make efforts to identify and protect their scenic resources, including open space, wildlife habitats, rare or endangered plant communities and mountain and river views and vistas. Attention should also be paid to properties that border or can be seen from the New York State Thruway so that the views of Saugerties remain as attractive as possible for the purpose of maintaining the image of Saugerties and for the promotion of the community.

7.3 promote a land use pattern that protects air quality, surface and groundwater resources while working to eliminate or minimize all sources of pollution, but not limited to road salt and leaching dump sites.

7.4 implement land use policies and regulations that provide for uses and densities which are compatible with the soils ability to support development, while protecting prime agricultural soils, existing farmland and farming operations wherever possible.

7.5 encourage residents and local businesses to engage in conservation efforts and assist residents in those endeavors where feasible.

7.6 prohibit uses in federally designated 100-year floodplains that may interfere with their flood carrying function, create safety hazards, increase the threat of property damage or shift floodplain boundaries downstream.

7.7 examine alternatives for regulating household and commercial burning of waste and the aerial spraying of chemicals and other sources of household, commercial and industrial pollution, in order to protect clean air and the health of residents.

7.8 promote options for preserving farmland and agricultural uses without interfering with a farmer’s right to obtain financing or to benefit financially from the sale of his/her property.

7.9 continue to enforce and improve policies that protect the Village water supply.

GOAL # 8 The Town and the Village should attempt to diversify its economic base by encouraging a variety of business and employment opportunities.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village:

8.1 shall designate areas for industrial development based on adequacy of utility and road and rail systems, soil and slope characteristics and opportunities for distinct separation from adjacent zones.

8.2 work together to actively encourage businesses to locate or remain in the area and support efforts to publicize and promote economic development issues in Saugerties.

8.3 encourage businesses locating with the Town and the Village to be appropriate in type and scale and contribute to the maintenance of the community image of Saugerties.

8.4 encourage the coordination of promotional and merchandising efforts among business merchants in commercial areas throughout the community.

8.5 permit home occupations, including professional uses, with standards that prevent disruption of neighborhood character in those areas zoned for residential uses.

8.6 encourage development of land in commercial districts with the Town that is more intensive, in cluster rather than strip patterns, with multiple uses sharing road access and parking facilities.

8.7 inventory commercial and industrial properties for sale or lease within the Town and Village and then aggressively promote.

8.8 as funds become available, make industrial zoned parcels ready for occupancy (including infrastructure and generic approvals) to attract appropriate businesses looking for immediate location or expansion. The Town and the Village should work with appropriate organizations to make this possible.

8.9 make additional efforts to support the development of businesses appropriate in size and scale in the lower Partition Street area of the Village. This area is important because it links the Village business district to the riverfront.

8.10 work with the commercial property owners to explore funding sources for public space improvements, such as benches, trash receptacles, signs, landscaping, street lights and public rest rooms.

8.11 support and maximize the benefits to the community created by retail stores within the community, while at the same time not losing sight of the need for conveniently located services for residents.

8.12 adopt performance standards to ensure that new business is compatible with nearby land uses and community character.

8.13 work to provide adequate space for commercial and industrial needs.

8.14 encourage the reuse of existing properties and infill development within the Town and Village, including the clean-up of abandoned industrial sites, or “brownfield” site, to avoid “sprawl” in both municipalities.

8.15 require landscaping plans of new developments. These plans should be reviewed by the Town and Village Planning Boards or the Conservation Advisory Committee.

8.16 establish design standards for commercial development to help ensure that commercial development is compatible in scale and design with neighboring properties.

8.17 should identify areas in which adult-oriented businesses can locate, in order to avoid violating First Amendment rights of freedom of speech and expression. The municipalities may regulate these uses in order to avoid secondary impacts.

8.18 support and maximize the benefits of federal, state and local economic development incentives, such as the Saugerties Subzone of the Kingston/Ulster Economic Development Zone.

GOAL #9 Utilities including roads, water, sewers, gas, electric, telecommunications and other types of infrastructure will be adequately developed to support both residential and business areas without detracting from the scenic beauty of Saugerties. Business cannot survive in Saugerties without the proper infrastructure, nor will new industries be attracted to the area.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and Village:

9.1 work with existing businesses to meet their infrastructure needs for any planned expansion in order for them to remain in Saugerties.

9.2 waste stream be managed in a responsible and progressive manner including having updated and well-maintained recycling centers along with water and sewage treatment plans. It is vital that residents and businesses have potable water and adequate sewage systems.

9.3 work with appropriate agencies to monitor long-term surface and groundwater quality by collecting data on septic system failures and contaminants in local streams, wells and waterways.

9.4 expansion and improvement of both the water and sewer systems be ongoing in the areas designated by the municipalities.

9.5 update local regulations pertaining to wireless communications that encourage telecommunications services without compromising the scenic qualities of Saugerties. All local regulations should be periodically reviewed to ensure that they are up to date with the latest technology.

9.6 shall participate in a county-wide or regional system to dispose of municipal solid waste generated within our boundaries. Siting a municipal solid waste disposal facility in the Town or Village is contrary to the Goals and Recommendations set forth herein.

GOAL #10 Minimize traffic congestion, maintain existing roads and ensure any future improvements will benefit the Town and the Village.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village:

10.1 recognize that its roads and rights-of-way are their most prominent public spaces, the means by which residents visualize their community, and are areas where the Town and Village can most directly control the future character of both communities.

10.2 continue to monitor parking within the Village business district to evaluate whether or not the existing parking is sufficient in order to maintain a healthy village economy. This should include evaluation of the number and location of parking spaces and adequacy of the Village parking lots.

10.3 work with business owners and trucking companies to explore alternatives for dealing with heavy truck traffic in the Village. Examples of alternatives include limited delivery hours and a truck route.

10.4 support repairing and extending the sidewalk system along primary connecting streets, and by integrating bicycle/walkways into a trail system. Sidewalks should connect heavily populated areas with community recreation centers and public buildings. Wherever feasible, the Town and the Village should require new residential and commercial development to construct sidewalks.

10.5 work with the appropriate companies and agencies to help ensure that taxi and bus service will be available with convenient stops.

10.6 support projects and proposals that help ensure that the railroads are adequately utilized for commercial use. Railroad rights-of-way should be preserved for current or future use.

10.7 work to maintain all roads, sidewalks, train tracks and their associated guardrails. Vehicle and pedestrian railroad crossings should be improved. At-grade railroad crossings should be eliminated wherever possible.

10.8 work with the Thruway Authority, New York State Department of Transportation and the Ulster County Department of Public Works to address the development of bike lanes, a park-and-ride lot and intersection, road and sign improvements.

10.9 in reviewing proposed subdivisions and site plans, should strictly limit the number of access points on collector roads and highways by discouraging strip patterns and promoting cluster development. (See also Recommendation 8.6)

10.10 require new commercial and industrial development, wherever feasible, to shield parking lots to the rear or side of the structure, share driveways, and provide for internally linked circulation or service roads between adjacent parcels.

10.11 support any community efforts to enhance its public streetscapes including efforts to replace street trees and add additional landscaping; furnish benches, waste containers and other pedestrian amenities; phasing out inappropriate signs; repairing and extending the sidewalk system; consolidating overhead wires and eventually placing them underground.

GOAL # 11 A harbor and waterfront area will be developed for the benefit of the citizens and neighbors of Saugerties. The Hudson River and its tributaries are a valuable asset to Saugerties and have always played a significant role in its history.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Saugerties Comprehensive Plan envisions that the Town and the Village:

11.1 seek to establish waterfront areas at Bristol Beach, Turkey Point and Eve’s Point, each with an adequate boat launch and suitable parking. This type of improvement will allow for boat rides to enjoy travel, sight-seeing and fishing on the river.

11.2 support the building of educational displays to feature information on the history of the river and the importance of reducing pollution.

11.3 encourage and support special attractions that enhance the educational and ecological use of the riverfront.

11.4 work with the State of New York to develop Bristol Beach, Turkey Point and Eve’s Point as riverfront recreation areas/parks.

11.5 The Village should periodically review and update its Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan.

11.6 The Town should look into the benefits of writing a Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan including any additional technical assistance and grant money available that requires a plan.

11.7 monitor and work to improve the water quality of the Esopus Creek.

11.8 explore transportation alternatives between the riverfront and the Village business center for both residents and visitors.

GOAL # 12 Promotion of tourism will be well planned to maximize its economic benefit to the community. Tourism is important to many town businesses. In promoting tourism and its benefits, the community must consider the potential impacts of tourism development, such as additional parking demands, increased traffic and pollution.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

12.1 Tourism in the area should build upon the assets of Saugerties and the Catskill region including the mountains, the Hudson River and the history of the area.

12.2 Tourism is an important business in the Saugerties area. The Town and the Village believe that it should be an important but not the sole element of the economic development strategy for the communities.

12.3 The Town and the Village should work with the appropriate individuals and agencies to identify appropriate and feasible locations for the cultural and performing arts.

12.4 Tourist attractions located within Saugerties must benefit the community through adding jobs and/or additional patronage of community businesses, and mitigate potential negative impacts such as additional traffic, parking and pollution.

12.5 The Town and the Village should continue to support events that draw a regional audience such as the Garlic Festival, the Mum Festival and regional or national sporting events at Cantine Field.

12.6 The Town and the Village will continue to support the Saugerties Visitor’s Center.

12.7 The Town and the Village should encourage tourist activities that highlight Saugerties rich history. (See also Recommendation 12.1)

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Citizens for Smart Development Calls Upon Hinchey To Help

Immediate Release
January 12, 2010

Media: For more information, please contact
Barry Benepe, 845-246-6491 or barrybenepe@aol.com
Dave Minch, 845-246-2711 or architrek12477@yahoo.com
Drawing: Barry Benepe

Saugerties Citizens for Smart Development (CSD) calls upon Congressman Maurice Hinchey to tell the truth about the proposed Partition Street Project planned for Saugerties.  Congressman Hinchey’s statement that “there is no limitation on the views of the fall” is false on its face.  The Partition Street Project as proposed will block the views of the magnificent Cantine Mill Falls from the public.  The developer/owners of whom Hinchey is one provide two points that they call “public access.”  However, neither is adequate in size or placement.  One is known as the “snow dump” and is not shown on the plan, is not owned by the developers, and is far from the waterfall and blocked by trees.  The second site offered is on the southern most end of the project overlooking the hydro electric plant, not the waterfall.  The rest of the waterfront is blocked from public view and is privatized for the purpose of commercial ventures.  A third suggestion that has been made by the developer is that the public can go to the restaurant, order a glass of water, and enjoy the view.  CSD’s point of view is that with some planning real public access could be provided at the Partition Street Project which would become a regional attraction that would draw people to Saugerties and be a boost to the local economy and to the Partition Street Project itself.  What is proposed will cut off this possibility forever.
To add insult to injury the plan calls for the blasting of Nanny Goat Hill, an ice age formation unique in Ulster County, to build a two-tier overflow parking lot.  Let us not destroy what nature gave us (or to quote a Joni Mitchell song they plan to “pave [d] paradise and put up a parking lot”) in order to satisfy the occasional parking needs for special events.  CSD has many other approaches to offer the Congressman, if he would listen.
CSD, a group formed to provide public access to the waterfront with a walkway along the bluff, protect Nanny Goat Hill, reduce the amount of surface parking, and provide an attractive landscaped entrance with buildings that fit into the historic context of the Village of Saugerties was disappointed to learn that Congressman Maurice Hinchey, an owner of the Partition Street Project, seeks to divert public attention away from the real issues.  Hinchey says and we all — including CSD members — agree that the project will be good for Saugerties.  The issue is whether the Congressman will honor the community vision and the law.
When Congressman Hinchey discussed the planning of the Hudson Landing project in Kingston, he raised his concerns about the environment to make sure that the process was properly followed.  But in the case of the Partition Street Project the Congressman is promoting a double standard: one for his project and another for all other projects.  If the Congressman would just substitute “Saugerties” for “Kingston” in the attached press release and letter, the project could be improved and be better for Saugerties.
Why does the Congressman apply a double standard when it comes to the Partition Street Project?  Why is the process conducted without a full environmental review that is usually required in a project of this size and complexity?  Why are the Congressman’s constituents concerns being dismissed?
The Congressman attempts to de-legitimize the concerns of CSD because we are a “small group.”  This is irrelevant.  As the Congressman well knows the history of the environmental movement in this country is full of examples of the efforts of small groups of environmentally aware citizens making a huge difference. Our willingness to stand up for the environment and be heard, as others have done often against tremendous odds, is the kind of grassroots guts upon which the movement was built. How does the Congressman think groups like Scenic Hudson and Clearwater were born?

Attached is a letter from CSD’s attorney, Grant & Lyons, LLP that spells out CSD’s concerns including the closed nature of the environmental review, the double standard embraced by Congressman Hinchey, the original vision for this property as supported by Hinchey and Mayor Yerick, and the need for a positive declaration to be issued by the Village of Saugerties Planning Board in the State Environmental Review Act process.

cantine mill walkwayFLAT 400x266  Citizens for Smart Development Calls Upon Hinchey To Help

Barry Benepe's Drawing for Cantine Mill Walkway

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Town and Village of Saugerties Comprehensive Plan

To the Editor:
In 1999 the Town and Village of Saugerties, in a unique collaboration, had the foresight to adopt a Comprehensive Plan.  This Town and Village of Saugerties Comprehensive Plan “provides a legal basis for the specific land use regulations and other local government functions which govern the structure of the community in the future.”

Throughout this document great attention is given to providing for the preservation of the small town character of Saugerties.  Provisions repeatedly call for attention to scale and design compatibility as well as historic preservation.

This Comprehensive Plan is meant to give the public and private sectors a CLEAR statement of what the community will expect in development proposals.  The Village Planning Board might find it useful to reacquaint themselves with a number of points in this forward thinking plan.

Some points in particular that call for consideration in reviewing proposed plans for the Partition Street Project:

Section 8.9 in particular states: “make additional efforts to support the development of businesses appropriate in size and scale in the lower Partition Street area of the village.  This area is important because it links the Village business district to the riverfront.”

Section 10.10 “require new commercial and industrial development, wherever feasible, to shield parking lots to the rear or side of the structure.”

#11 The Hudson River and its tributaries are a valuable asset to Saugerties and have always played a significant role in its history.

Section 11.8 “explore transportation alternatives between the riverfront and the Village business center for both residents and visitors.”

This plan was established with public input.  It represents what is important to the community of Saugerties. What is the point of establishing a Comprehensive Plan if such plans can be summarily ignored by those appointed to enforce it?  We urge the Village Planning Board, as well as Mr. Struzzieri, Congressman Hinchey, and Mr. Mullen to consult the Comprehensive Plan in its decision-making regarding the Partition Street Project.

Virginia Luppino
John Bassler

Cc: Saugerties Village Board
Rep. Maurice Hinchey

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